Tempe Conventions & Visitors Bureau

Don’t you just love this time of the year in Tempe? It’s  great to get out and enjoy our beautiful fall weather.  And there’s so much happening this week in the arts and cultural scene, including the fabulous  BLUE MAN GROUP at ASU Gammage, November 1-6.  Who can resist the amazing antics of this group that has entertained more than 17 million people around the world? And now we’ll have the opportunity to experience  the playful party atmosphere of a BLUE MAN GROUP live event right here in Tempe. Don’t miss this big, bright, blue high energy mix of explosive music, comedy and media that’s perfect for the whole family.  This show is guaranteed to chase the blues away! 

Check out this sample of other entertaining events taking place this week in Tempe. View a complete listing of Tempe events, or call 480-894-8158 for more information. 

• October 31:  The Sullivans, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
• October 31-November 13:  Childsplay Presents: The Sun Serpent, Tempe Center for the Arts
• November 1:  Open Jam, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
• November 1: Walk-in Wednesdays Open Mic, Tempe Center for the Arts
• November 1-6: BLUE MAN GROUP, ASU Gammage
• November 2: Nov 2: ZAZU & Steve Douglas, Dave’s Electric Brew Pub
• November 2: Arizona Wind Symphony: A Latin American Fantasy, Tempe Center for the Arts
• November 3: Music on Mill, Mill Avenue District
• November 3-6: John Witherspoon, Tempe Improv
• November 4: Los Guys; November 5: Michelle Rene Band, Tempe Marketplace District Stage
• November 4: David & Amy; November 5: Whitney Steele, Tempe Marketplace Barnes & Noble Fountain
• November 4-5: Love Crazy with Ritch Shydner in the Wonderama Theatre, Tempe Improv
• November 5: Passport to the World – Session I, Hackett House
• November 5: Dance the Night Away, Tempe Center for the Arts
• November 5-6: Pockets Full of Bread,  Empty Space Theatre
• November 6: Tempe Symphonic Wind Ensemble: A Salute to Our Veterans, Tempe Center for the Arts
• November 6: Music on the Patio with Shelby James, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
• November 6: Trevor Rogers and The Wilderness, Cadillac Ranch

Calling all book, history, art and antique lovers!! It’s Marco, your Hole-in-the-Wall enthusiast here to share with you yet another one of my little adventures in Tempe. Last time we talked about hole-in-the-wall restaurants, but with fall here the time for indoor activities has come. What better activity than to catch up on some much needed reading? And what better way to enjoy a book than with a glass of red wine, snuggled in your Snuggie next to a warm fireplace. Yes, some Tempe homes have chimneys, but I digress.

I’m here to talk to you about a one-of-a-kind book store right smack in the heart of downtown Tempe that exceeds all of your old-antique-one-of-a-kind-never-going-to-find-any-where-else-relaxing-fireplace-reading-book needs. If you live here, chances are you have passed by this place a few times. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably been curious to check it out, but never actually made time for it. Well, I’m here to tell you that you are in for a real treat.

Family owned and operated by the same lovely couple since the mid 1980’s, Old Town Books is a small, quaint store - old-fashioned to the core (hehe, that rhymes). Nothing new-aged, technology-driven about this place; and quite honestly it’s a nice break from the modern world. Everything from the high-traffic-worn rugs; to the old wooden book shelves; to the aged red brick that surrounds the store; to the conglomerate of antique books dating back as far as the 1800’s, all create this cozy, warm environment. From the moment you walk through the door you are taken back by the sweet scent of thousands of old pages from hundreds of old books.

I don’t know what it is about the smell of old books. Call me weird (all my friends do anyway), but I find the old-book smell fascinating – romantic, even! If you are a history lover like me, you might find the scent helps you connect with an old almanac, thesaurus, history book or bible because more of your senses are in use other than just your eyes sight. The scent of these priceless items is never-ending in Old Town Books and it makes you want to sit down and read every book in the store. It’s a fascinating place and chances are you are going to leave with than you bargained for. I know I did.

This place takes the phrase “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure” to another level. I was stunned to find bibles and novels dating back to 1863 with family journals of who-passed-the-book-to-who. Really?! Who gets rid of heirlooms like this?! Sorry, again I digress.

Take the time and see what you can discover at Old Town Books. Marvel at the art and history and let your imagination ask you: who read this book? Where and when was it bought? How many copies are available now?

Now, if you are as adventurous as you say you are, again, I will purposely not tell you exactly where this store is located so you can have fun looking for it. Here’s an easy hint: Old Town Books is located on Mill Avenue between 5th and 6th street. Take a stroll; pick up some coffee along the way; heck, make date out of it!

Go ahead, take the time. If you are a book, history, art or antique lover I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Until next time!
Your Tempe hole-in-the-wall enthusiast,

Marco

How will you enjoy Halloween in Tempe this year?

Halloween is on Monday. Not the optimum night for trick or treating, but it does mean that you can enjoy lots of Halloween-themed activities this weekend in Tempe.

The whole family will enjoy watching “Spooky Buddies” at the Kiwanis Movies in the Park on Friday, October 28. The movie will start at dusk (around 6 p.m.). The movie will be shown on a large inflatable screen on the west side of the lake at Kiwanis Park. Snacks, drinks and glow sticks will be available for purchase.

The Family Halloween Carnival will also be at Kiwanis Park on the next night, Saturday, October 29. From 5-9 p.m., you can enjoy activity booths, a costume contest, performances from a magician and a clown, a mini train ride, a bounce house and more. There’s a new feature called “Tot Town” with art and crafts, games and other activities for children 5 and under.  Admission to the Family Halloween Carnival is free, and tickets for food and game booths can be purchased for 25 cents apiece. Admission to Tot Town is $1 per child.

For individuals in the mood for a fright, the Tempe History Museum is hosting an evening of real life ghost stories – for free – on Friday, October 28 on 6:30 p.m. Marshall Shore will present Haunted Places, Nefarious Deeds and Other Oddities, which will feature stories and images about Winnie Ruth Judd, also known as the Trunk Murderess, as well as the hauntings of local establishments like Monti’s La Casa Vieja, Casey Moore’s, Tovrea Castle, the Stockyards, San Carlos Hotel and Aunt Chilada’s. There will also be a Halloween costume contest with prizes awarded in three categories: Most Historic, Spookiest and Funniest. Prizes include a $40 gift certificate to Monti’s La Casa Vieja, dinner for two at Tempe Mission Palms and dinner for two at Casey Moore’s. For more information, call the museum at 480-350-5100.

At the Tempe Town Lake Marina, anyone from age 10 and up can go on a moonlight kayak ride on Saturday, October 29. Costumes are encouraged. No experience is necessary, and all equipment will be provided. Cost is $30 per person. Participants must register in advance at www.tempe.gov/brochure with code 26888. For more information, call the City of Tempe at 480-350-8069.

Happy Halloween everyone!

With beautiful weather upon us, now is the perfect time to experience Tempe’s outdoor dining options. Tempe has several restaurants that offer great outdoor patio dining. Here are a few of my favorites:

Canteen Modern Tequila Bar: Located right on Mill Avenue, Canteen’s patio offers views of the Mill Ave hustle and bustle. There is one patio located in the front of the restaurant, and another bigger patio located in the back. The atmosphere is fun and trendy and the food can’t be beat. 

Pier 54: Waterfront views, live music on Friday and Saturday evenings, great food and an amazing patio to enjoy it all! What more could you ask for! My favorite dish here is the strawberry kiwi salad…so good!

Gordon Biersch Brewery: Situated on the second floor, this patio offers great views of the Mill Avenue District. It is also a  great spot to catch all the action during events such as the Tempe Arts Festival or the Fiesta Insight Bowl Block Party.

House of Tricks: This restaurant’s patio is both charming and inviting. While connecting the two cottages that make up the restaurant, the patio offers an outdoor fireplace, full bar and a lovely garden atmosphere.

Bisonwitches: If you are looking for a relaxing & casual patio atmosphere, Bisonwitches is the place to go. Grab some friends and enjoy a few beers while enjoying the sunny weather.

Rula Bula: This is a great spot to head to after work to enjoy some yummy happy hours specials. The large patio is located in back of the restaurant and has plenty of space for bigger groups!

Canteen Modern Tequila Bar

For some real fun for the whole family, head to Tempe Diablo Stadium this weekend for the Rockabilly Reunion.  There ‘ll be a whole lot of shakin’ goin’ on with live bands, car and vintage motorcycle shows, carnival rides, pin up pageant, giveaways and more! This is a first for Tempe!

View a complete listing of Tempe events, or call 480-894-8158 for more information.

- October 25: Open Jam, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant  
- October 25: Performance with A View: Studio E217 Voice Recital, Tempe Center for the Arts
- October 26: Walk-in Wednesdays Open Mic, Tempe Center for the Arts
- October 26: Renee Patrick with Stan Sorenson & W. Jones, Dave’s Electric Brew Pub
- October 27: Best of the West Comedy Show, Tempe Improv
- October 27: Music on Mill, Mill Avenue District
- October 28: Music in the Garden: Sergio Mendoza y la Orkesta, Desert Botanical Garden
- October 28: ASU School of Music Presents:  Brentano String Quartet, Katzin Music Hall
- October 28: The Love Brokers, October 29: Shawn Johnson & The Foundation, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
- October 28-30: Rockabilly Reunion, Tempe Diablo Stadium
- October 28: Mojo Farmers; October 29: Knee Deep Experience, Tempe Marketplace District Stage
-October 28: Pete Pancrazi; October 29: Tony Putrino, Accordionist & Keyboardist, Tempe Marketplace Barnes & Noble Fountain
- October 28-29:  Love Crazy with Ritch Shydner in the Wonderama Theatre,  Tempe Improv
- October 28-30: Charley Murphy, Tempe Improv   
- October 29: ASU School of Music Presents Romanenko-Yoshikawa Duo, Katzin Concert Hall
- October 29: Ladies’ Night Out II, Tempe Center for the Arts
- October 29: Jam with the Jeff Libman Trio, Robbie Fox’s Public House
- October 29-30: Dia de los Muertos Celebration, Desert Botanical Garden
- October 29-November 13:  Childsplay Presents: The Sun Serpent, Tempe Center for the Arts
- October 30: Phoenix Youth Symphony Fall Concert, Tempe Center for the Arts
- October 30: Music on the Patio with Shelby James, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
- October 30: Trevor Rogers and The Wilderness, Cadillac Ranch

Who doesn’t love a tasty taco? If tacos are your weakness, then Tempe is the place indulge yourself! Here’s a list of my top 5 favorite taco spots in Tempe:

1. America’s Taco Shop – Just plain good…every time! The tacos al pastor are addicting to say the least! Also try the bean and cheese burrito while you’re there, you won’t regret it!

2. Canteen Moden Tequila Bar - The tacos at Canteen taste fresh and delicious. The tacos to try, in my opinion, are the mushroom street tacos and/or the pork street tacos. I’m sure the other varieties are good too, but these are my favorite!

3. The Tavern on Mill – The best day to go for tacos at The Tavern is on “Taco Tuesdays” of course! Tacos are just $2.50 a piece. I usually fill up on one taco, but if you’re really hungry, I’d suggest getting two right off the bat. The pork tacos are out-of-this world, and the chips and salsa that come with your taco will make your belly happy!

4. Mucho Gusto – Not only is the guacamole crazy good at Mucho Gusto, but the tacos also make my list of top Tempe tacos. The Mexico City Street Tacos are as unique as they are delicious, with flavors that will make your mouth water!

5. Chronic Tacos – A funky place on Mill, the tacos are impressive in both flavor and size, and the restaurant decor is eye-catching and fun. The restaurant spills out to a patio, so it’s a great place to grab a taco and enjoy the weather. 

Did I forget any tasty taco joints? If so, please add them to my list to try out! I’m always up for tasting new tacos in Tempe!

The Great Pumpkin Festival at Desert Botanical Garden

October has arrived and it’s time to get excited about Halloween! I’m sure everyone has been focused on the finding the perfect costume, but don’t forget to schedule in some time and go to some of the many Halloween events Tempe has to offer. Throughout the month there will be several Halloween inspired events that can guarantee a great time with lots of laughs, and maybe even some screams.

Here is a list of some fun ways to celebrate Halloween in Tempe, without adding on all those extra calories.

• 34^th Annual Family Halloween Carnival at Kiwanis Park: Head to Kiwanis Park on Saturday 29^th from 5-9 p.m. for some friendly trick or treating, a costume contest, face painting, carnival games, and of course, food. 
• 11th Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest: Show off your creative skills by carving a pumpkin and possibly taking home some sweet prizes. This event takes place at Four Peaks Brewing Company, so children are allowed but no one under 21 is permitted without a parent. Carving commences Tuesday, October 25^th at 6 p.m.
• The Great Pumpkin Festival: Visit the Desert Botanical Garden between October 20-23 and pick out the best pumpkin before its gone! There will be activities for kids as well as live entertainment.
• Haunted Tempe Walking Tour at Tempe Double Butte Cemetery: Grab your bravest friend and join this narrated walking tour of the cemetery Prepare yourself find out which Arizona Governor declared war on California, how Bermuda grass ended up in Tempe, and more scoops on Tempe’s most famous (and dead) residents.
• Schnepf Farm Pumpkin and Chili Party: These people know how to throw a party! Celebrating pumpkins, chili, and 70 years of ‘farming and fun’. It’s a good thing they are open from 10 a.m. until 9 or 10 p.m. because there is so much to do! Enjoy hay rides, pig races, a70 acre corn maze, a rock climbing wall, live entertainment, and attractions for kids and the entire family. Every Thursday – Sunday in October.
• ASU Homecoming Weekend: Join the Sun devils and celebrate Homecoming Weekend October 29^th at the Homecoming parade and block party Saturday during the day, and end the night at the football game against the Colorado Buffaloes.

With Halloween right around the corner, make sure you do not miss out any of these spectacular events! For more fun fall and Halloween events, be sure to check out the events calendar at http://www.tempetourism.com/.

The ASU Jazz Band and an outstanding lineup of guests will present a full-blown, completely swinging tribute to the great Ray Charles. The performance will feature Chicago’s top jazzman, Perrian Jordan as Brother Ray with instrumentation for full big band, including original arrangements from the great Ray Charles album, Genius + Soul = Jazz. Guests include: Chicago based group The Raelettes with vocalists Perrian Jordan, Dee Alexander, Yvone Gage and Joan Collaso; Jeff Lindberg, guest director; and Michael Kocour, associate professor in the ASU School of Music on the piano and Hammond B3. Ray Charles fans will not want to miss this one.

View a complete listing of Tempe events, or call 480-894-8158 for more information.

• October 17: Tempe Symphony Orchestra Opening Concert, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 17: Colbie Caillat; October 18; Chromeo; October 19: The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Marquee Theatre
• October 18: Open Jam, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
• October 19: Walk-in Wednesdays Open Mic, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 19: Delphine Cortez & Joel Robin, Dave’s Electric Brew Pub
• October 20: Kevin O’Dea’s Comedy Circus, Tempe Improv
• October 20: Third Thursday on Mill, Mill Avenue District 
• October 21: Jeff Hunt Band; October 22: Take Cover, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
• October 21: First Crush Charity Gala, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 21: Peppermint James; October  22: Sunday Morning Drive, Tempe Marketplace District Stage
• October 21: Scott & John of Hello Swindon; October  22: Hans Olson, Tempe Marketplace Barnes & Noble Fountain
• October 21-22:  Love Crazy with Ritch Shydner in the Wonderama Theatre, Tempe Improv
• October 21-23: Aries Spears, Tempe Improv
• October 21-23: ASU School of Theatre & Film Presents Zoot Suit, Lyceum Theater
• October 22-23: Childsplay Presents: The Sun Serpent, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 22: A Tribute to Ray Charles with the ASU Concert Jazz Band and Guests, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 22: Jam with the Jeff Libman Trio, Robbie Fox’s Public House
• October 23: Music on the Patio with Shelby James, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
• October 23: Trevor Rogers and The Wilderness, Cadillac Ranch

If you’re like me, then you’re a fan of the small, hidden little places most cities have to offer otherwise know as the “hole-in-the-wall” restaurants. What is it about these places that makes them so much more attractive than your typical franchises? I could never wrap my mind around it or come to a clear answer for myself, but I guess what does it for me is the adventure of discovering these little gems. And if you’re an adventurous person yourself, maybe what does it for you is the thrill or do I even dare to say romance [emphasis on romance] of trying something different. Whatever the case, Tempe has a hole-in-the-wall treat just for you.

Cornish Pasty Co. is one of Tempe’s best hidden gems; and honestly the hole in this wall ain’t gettin’ any smaller. You might want to call ahead and check on the seating just to avoid waiting lines. Upon entering, the smell of freshly made pasties fills your nostrils in this bohemian-like atmosphere. Perfect for the hole-in-the-wall enthusiast. The restaurant is small, dark, with dimmed lighting and is accompanied by all sorts of genres of music from indie rock to jazz. Come as you are! No need to dress fancy as even the employees are dressed as they please; which I dare say even adds to the overall environment.

“But hey, what about the food? Is it good?” Or “what the heck is a pasty anyway,” you may be asking yourself. Well, I have always been of the opinion that the smaller, more hidden, less franchised a restaurant tends to be; the better the food will be! And buddy, is there a treat waiting for you at Cornish Pasty Co. It’s hard to describe what a pasty is, but it’s pretty much taking an empanada and teaching it English! Instead of the sweet stuff the empanadas are filled with, pasties are hardy meals stuffed with different combinations of chicken, beef, potatoes, steak and lamb. I’m sure they taste a lot better then how I am able to describe, (sorry to any Cornish Pasty employee who reads this) but don’t take my word for it. Try it for yourself!

If you are a hungry college student tired of eating the same Subway, Panda, Chick-fil-a or Jimmy Johns; or just one of our beloved tourists, do yourself a favor and try something different for a very reasonable price at Cornish Past Co. Now, if you don’t know where CPCo is located and you are as adventurous as you say you are I will purposely not tell you exactly where this place is so you can have a little fun searching for it. Heck, make a date out of it!

Here’s an easy hint: its on one of the north corners of University and Hardy. Good luck and happy feasting!

Your hole-in-the-wall enthusiast,

Marco

You’ve seen him in movies such as Dumb and Dumber and There’s Something about Mary and on TV shows, including Loveline and the Adam Carolla Show. You’ve laughed at his quirky antics and on-screen chemistry with Conan O’Brien.  Now you can see Comedian Harland Williams in person at the Tempe Improv this weekend, October 14-16.

Harland Williams at the Tempe Improv is just one of many great events taking place this week in Tempe. View a complete listing of Tempe events, or call 480-894-8158 for more information.

• October 10:  Mark Vonnegut: Just Like Someone without Mental Illness Only More So, Changing Hands Bookstore
• October 11: Open Jam , Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
• October 12: Walk-in Wednesdays Open Mic, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 12: Michael Powers Group, Dave’s Electric Brew Pub
• October 12-13: Class Clowns Comedy Showcase, Tempe Improv
• October 13: Music on Mill, Mill Avenue District
• October 13: Paper Cup Exchange:  Maya González, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 13: Tribal Seeds, 6:30 p.m.; October 14: Shopping Kart Tragedies, 5:00 p.m.; October 15: Ten Years, 6:30 p.m., Marquee Theatre
• October 14: Walt Richardson and the Peaceful Warriors; October 15: Sullivans, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
•  October 14: Traveler; October 15: Casey Lee Smith Band, Tempe Marketplace District Stage
• October 14: Leah and Stephanie, October 15: Jeordie & Friend, Tempe Marketplace Barnes & Noble Fountain
• October 14-16: Harland Williams, Tempe Improv
• October 14-23: ASU School of Theatre & Film Presents Zoot Suit, Lyceum Theater
• October 15: Dias Dance Life presents Beyond Motion Boundaries, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 15: Jam with the Jeff Libman Trio, Robbie Fox’s Public House
• October 15-16: Childsplay Presents: Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, Tempe Center for the Arts
• October 16: Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts School of Music Presents Michael Dean, Katzin Concert Hall
• October 16: Music on the Patio with Shelby James, Rula Bula Irish Pub & Restaurant
• October 16: Trevor Rogers and The Wilderness, Cadillac Ranch